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Installing the tracks

Posted: Tue Aug 29, 2023 2:42 am
by Nick Chiocchio
So I'm like at 95% done and went to install the tracks and remembered how hard it was with the motors attached. You could possibly have the tank powered up to "push" the tracks across the rollers to install but I'm not comfortable with that.

So with a simple piece of cardboard I think I came up with a quick life fix to simplify the track installation. You simply cover the sprocket with cardboard so you can slide the tracks over to the front roller and connect the links. These pictures should help:

First off place a hex wrench on the tension adjustment roller to hold the track in place. You may need to keep your hand on it to hold it in lace when you run the tracks to join up.
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Now have the remaining length piled up by the sprocket, you will slide it over the sprocket to meet the front return roller.
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Cardboard to keep the tracks from engaging the sprocket so they will slide over.
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Make sure the track guides are properly oriented to pass easily over the return rollers.
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The track adjust roller tension adjustment should be set to the least tension. You will adjust after the traks are connected.
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I adjusted the tracks to as tight as possible. I also didn't mention the tank is elevated so it's easy to work the track and make the tension adjustments.
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Let me know if this works for you. I think it would work with almost any tank. In the final picture the tank is not elevated but resting on the lift. It just came back from it's first run, sorry no video but maybe this weekend!

Re: Installing the tracks

Posted: Mon Sep 04, 2023 1:28 pm
by Steve McEvoy
I find it easier to put the tracks on from the idler wheel end and join them at the sprocket that way nothing hangs up on the sprocket.

Re: Installing the tracks

Posted: Wed Sep 06, 2023 4:53 am
by Ray Massa
Steve McEvoy wrote:
Mon Sep 04, 2023 1:28 pm
I find it easier to put the tracks on from the idler wheel end and join them at the sprocket that way nothing hangs up on the sprocket.
I do that as well Steve but also because you can pull the two halves together and lock them on the sprockets so the tracks don't move when inserting the pin.